An investigation into the making of the cultural traditions of kwa Sokhulu chiefdom in modern South Africa: an Afrocentric approach
English This research study contributes to the existing body of literature by investigating The Making of the Cultural Traditions of KwaSokhulu Chiefdom in Modern South Africa from an Afrocentric Approach. The KwaSokhulu Chiefdom is situated in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa, along the east coast between St. Lucia and Richards Bay. The coastline, reserved for subsistence gatherers, stretches approximately two kilometres (Harris, 2000:1). The study was conducted in the Zululand area of KZN, encompassing Mandlazini (the Traditional Seat of the Chiefdom), Emhlangeni, eNtambanana, eMtubatuba, KwaMbonambi, and Enseleni. The research is anchored in the Afrocentric paradigm, focusing on African identity from the viewpoint of African people as centred, located, oriented, and grounded. Molefe Asante's (1987) concept of "Afrocentricity" informed the theoretical framework, emphasizing the need for African people to be historically, economically, socially, politically, and philosophically recentred. A qualitative research design was employed to gain an in-depth understanding of the cultural traditions of the KwaSokhulu Chiefdom. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected participants, comprising traditional leaders, elders, and community members. Focus group discussions and participant observations were also conducted to gather diverse perspectives and enrich the data. Document analysis of historical texts and traditional records supplemented the primary data. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data, allowing for the identification of key patterns and themes related to cultural traditions, roles, and the impact of modernity. Findings reveal that the Chiefdom is traditionally viewed as a complex institution shaped by norms, traditions, achieved and ascribed statuses, roles and expectations. These elements are embedded in belief systems regulated by principles and symbolized through material and abstract artefacts. The Chiefdom also functions as an intermediary between traditional governance systems and modern governmental structures. Furthermore, the study highlights how apartheid-era policies influenced the socio-cultural dynamics of KwaSokhulu, leading to both disruptions and adaptations in traditional practices. The research concludes that while the KwaSokhulu Chiefdom retains strong cultural traditions, it faces challenges in adapting to modern governance frameworks. modern municipal systems, promoting cultural education to preserve indigenous knowledge and encouraging community Recommendations include fostering greater integration between traditional leadership and participation in governance to enhance social cohesion. These strategies are essential for safeguarding cultural heritage while facilitating progressive development within the Chiefdom.
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